(INDIANAPOLIS) - Marsh Supermarkets is announcing plans to close eight stores before the end of the month. Declining customer bases and expiring leases were the major factors in the decision.

The company said in a statement:

"Customers have spoken and we are reacting to the realities of the markets and making difficult decisions to address the long-term health of the company.

This action is the first part of a three-year plan we are implementing this year to position Marsh Supermarkets for growth and profitability. More specifically, we will be implementing a major capital program to bring all stores under the Marsh Brand, update and remodel existing stores and seek opportunities to build new stores in new or existing markets.

We are working with the employees affected by this decision. Wherever possible, we will place them in another position within the company. If that is not possible, they will have a severance package."